The path I’ve been talking about in this series of posts is, of course, the path of personal growth. I talk a lot about it because I believe it’s the key to finding bliss – the loving relationship you want. The transformational coach Debbie Ford has a lot say about this topic, too.

Ford writes that sometimes on this path we have to deal with what Carl Jung called the shadow. All the parts of ourselves we’ve tried to hide or deny, or that we think aren’t acceptable to our family, friends, and most important, ourselves. The message we get from this shadow is simple: there is something wrong with me. I’m not okay. I’m not lovable. I’m not deserving. I’m not worthy.

My message to clients is just the opposite. Of course you are worthy and lovable. We all are! The key to overcoming this obstacle on your path is to own and embrace the very things you’re most afraid of. As Debbie Ford asserts, they actually hold our most treasured gifts. And as I truly believe, this includes a sustained, beautiful loving relationship with another gay man. Your life will be transformed when you make peace with your shadow. You won’t have to pretend to be someone you’re not or prove you’re good enough. In other words, find the gifts of your shadow and you’ll find the freedom to create the life you’ve always desired.